Make Halloween More Fun With These Safety Tips

While the City of Abilene does not have any set guidelines for how, where or when to trick or treat on Halloween. Some City and county officials advise, that trick or treating should be done between 5:30PM and 9:00PM on Halloween day.

That said, here are some general safety tips I've gathered to make trick or treating more safe and enjoyable. Sources: SafeKids.org and MissingKids.com

Costumes

Use face paint & makeup instead of masks, which can obstruct a child’s vision

Choose lighter and brighter colors

Add reflective tape and/or stickers on all sides of the costume

Make sure the costume fits to avoid trips and falls

Always carry a glow stick and a flashlight

Trick or Treating

Know the neighborhood, it's better if you know the neighbors too

Pick a route with well lit streets and sidewalks

Adults/guardians should always accompany young children

Never trick or treat alone go with a group

Always go to the door with the child to get their treats

Do not allow a child to go into a house/car unless you are with them

Only go to homes with porch lights on

Do not use electronic devices while walking, no earbuds/headphones

Pay attention to your surroundings at all times

Cross street at corners and controlled intersections when possible

Never go in between parked cars

Do not eat any treats until they've been inspected by an adult at home

Report suspicious activity to police immediately

Personal Safety

Teach children to yell NO! loud & repeatedly when in danger or being assaulted

Teach children to try to escape danger including yelling, hitting, and kicking

Make sure kids know their address & parents phone numbers

Teach kids when and how to call 911

Driving

Slow down in neighborhood & housing areas on Halloween

Look out for children darting out between parked cars

Observe traffic signs and allow pedestrians the right of way

Turn on your headlights

Use extreme caution when backing, entering or leaving a driveway

When driving in popular trick or treating areas, turn off music, be alert, look and listen

Never text & drive and avoid being on the phone while driving during this time

When you get home

Never eat any candy or treat until every piece has been inspected by an adult

Never eat baked/homemade goods unless from well known family and/or friends

Discard any suspicious candy or treat

Finally, know where to go, to get the most enjoyment of this spooky holiday.